If you're on the hunt for a dish that’s equal parts comforting and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe is guaranteed to be a family favorite, packed with tender chicken, rich cheese, and savory pasta that hits all the right notes. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you whipping up a warm, hearty meal in no time. Follow along for a detailed step-by-step guide to mastering this delicious dish—let’s get cooking!

What Is Cheesy Chicken Pasta?
Cheesy Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—a savory blend of juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and loads of melted cheese. The rich, creamy sauce ties it all together for a one-pot meal that’s satisfying and easy to prepare. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can use various types of cheese, pasta, and even different seasonings to make it your own. Whether you're making this for a cozy family dinner or prepping it for a special occasion, it’s a dish that never fails to impress.
Ingredients List for Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Before you begin, make sure you’ve gathered all the necessary ingredients. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need for this mouth-watering Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe:
- 2 cups of chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups of penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
Ingredients List for Cheesy Chicken Pasta Sauce
The sauce is what makes this dish incredibly rich and creamy. Here's a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need specifically for the sauce:
- 1 cup of heavy cream – This forms the base of your creamy sauce, ensuring that each bite is indulgent.
- 1 ½ cups of chicken broth – The broth adds depth to the flavor while keeping the sauce light enough to coat the pasta beautifully.
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese – Melted into the sauce, this cheese adds a smooth, stretchy texture.
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar cheese gives the sauce its cheesy punch.
- 1 tablespoon of butter – Adds richness and helps in combining all the flavors.
- Garlic and Italian seasoning – These will elevate the sauce with a burst of savory notes.
- Salt and pepper – Don’t forget to season to taste for a balanced flavor profile.
Substitutions and Variations
There are countless ways to customize this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas:
- Chicken Substitute: If you prefer, you can use turkey or pork instead of chicken. Rotisserie chicken also works well if you’re looking for a shortcut.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken altogether and bulk up the dish with veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Pasta Variations: Swap the penne for fusilli, farfalle, or elbow macaroni. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used as a healthier alternative.
- Cheese Alternatives: If cheddar and mozzarella aren’t your go-to cheeses, try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan. You can also use a mix for a more complex flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you want a little heat in your cheesy chicken pasta.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's get into the step-by-step process of cooking this delicious dish.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Make sure not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any bits of chicken left on the bottom of the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Stir until everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the pasta is well-mixed and heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Cook Cheesy Chicken Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Cheesy Chicken Pasta is simple, but here’s a more detailed breakdown to ensure you get it perfect every time:
- Start with Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh chicken breasts and freshly shredded cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Cook the Pasta Just Right: Be sure not to overcook the pasta. You want it to be al dente so that it holds up well in the creamy sauce.
- Build Layers of Flavor: Sautéing garlic, using butter, and seasoning at each stage ensures a depth of flavor that will take your cheesy chicken pasta to the next level.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Give the cheese time to melt fully and incorporate into the sauce. This ensures that your sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: If the pasta is too soft, it will turn mushy once mixed with the sauce.
- Burning the Garlic: Be careful when sautéing garlic. It should be lightly golden, not browned or burnt, as burnt garlic can make the dish bitter.
- Adding Cheese Too Fast: Adding cheese all at once can lead to clumps. Gradually stir in the cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Underseasoning: Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and herbs! Taste as you go to ensure the best flavor balance.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can turn a simple meal into a dining experience. Here’s how to elevate your Cheesy Chicken Pasta for serving:
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
- Cheese Topping: For an extra cheesy touch, grate some Parmesan cheese over the top right before serving.
- Serve with a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the pasta with a light, refreshing green salad.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Serve your Cheesy Chicken Pasta immediately for the best experience. Pair it with some crusty garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce, and a glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Individual Bowls: Serve the pasta in individual bowls, each topped with a little extra cheese and parsley.
- Family Style: For a more casual presentation, serve the pasta in a large, decorative bowl in the center of the table.
- Baked Variation: For a unique twist, transfer the cooked pasta into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until golden brown for a baked version.
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then just cook the pasta and combine everything when you're ready to eat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creaminess.
- Freeze It: This dish can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken works great for this recipe.
- What other types of pasta can I use? You can use any short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or even macaroni.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sauce and chicken ahead of time and refrigerate. Simply combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
- How do I prevent the cheese from clumping? Add the cheese gradually and stir constantly to ensure a smooth sauce.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy yet indulgent Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken, it’s a meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Try this recipe today, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to make it uniquely yours!
PrintCheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta recipe is a creamy and savory dish that combines tender chicken, rich cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. The creamy cheese sauce is the star of this comforting meal, making it a family favorite. Enjoy a hearty dinner with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Pasta, creamy pasta, chicken dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Diabetic
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat in the cheesy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
Leave a Reply